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Diplo, Alex Morgan and Mina Kimes Talk Women''s Sports, Post-Run DJ Concerts and More at Variety''s Sports & Entertainment Breakfast

Diplo's Wild Confession: Attending the Women's World Cup Final on LSD, Alex Morgan's Reaction, and Mina Kimes' Take

In a revelation that's equal parts bizarre and entertaining, world-renowned DJ and producer Diplo has opened up about one of the most unconventional experiences of his life: attending the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup final while under the influence of LSD. The story, which has quickly gone viral, paints a vivid picture of the intersection between celebrity culture, sports fandom, and the unpredictable world of psychedelics. Diplo shared this anecdote during a recent appearance on ESPN analyst Mina Kimes' podcast, where he delved into his adventures as a soccer enthusiast. The confession not only highlights Diplo's eccentric personality but also elicited a humorous response from U.S. women's national team star Alex Morgan, who was at the center of that historic victory.

To set the scene, let's rewind to July 7, 2019, in Lyon, France. The U.S. women's national soccer team, led by co-captain Alex Morgan, faced off against the Netherlands in the World Cup final. It was a match that would go down in history, with the Americans securing a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from Megan Rapinoe and Rose Lavelle. The win marked the team's fourth World Cup title, solidifying their dominance on the global stage and inspiring millions around the world. Amid the sea of fans, celebrities, and dignitaries in the stands was Diplo, whose real name is Thomas Wesley Pentz. But as he later admitted, his experience of the game was anything but ordinary.

Diplo, known for his chart-topping hits like "Lean On" and collaborations with artists such as Justin Bieber and Sia, has long been open about his adventurous lifestyle. From producing music in exotic locations to attending high-profile events, he's no stranger to pushing boundaries. However, his tale from the World Cup final takes that ethos to a new level. On Mina Kimes' show, "The Mina Kimes Show featuring Lenny," Diplo recounted how he decided to drop acid before the big game. "I was in France for the Women's World Cup final, and I took LSD," he said matter-of-factly, as if describing a casual outing. He explained that the decision stemmed from a desire to enhance the experience, but it quickly spiraled into a hallucinatory journey that made the match feel like a surreal dream.

According to Diplo, the effects kicked in just as the game began, turning the stadium into a kaleidoscope of colors and emotions. He described the crowd's energy as overwhelming, with the cheers and chants amplifying in his altered state. "It was like the whole stadium was pulsing," he recalled. "I remember seeing Alex Morgan on the field, and it felt like she was glowing or something. The goals were insane – like fireworks in my brain." Despite the intensity, Diplo managed to stay composed enough to enjoy the victory, even joining in the celebrations afterward. He joked about trying to navigate the post-game festivities, including interactions with fans and possibly even brushing shoulders with players, all while riding the waves of his trip.

Mina Kimes, the host and a prominent voice in sports media, reacted with a mix of amusement and incredulity during the interview. Kimes, who has built a reputation for her sharp analysis on ESPN shows like "NFL Live" and her podcast, is no stranger to blending sports with pop culture. She's interviewed everyone from athletes to entertainers, often uncovering unique stories that go beyond the field. In this episode, she pressed Diplo for details, asking how he even got tickets to such a high-demand event. Diplo revealed that his connections in the music world helped, but he emphasized that the LSD was a spontaneous choice – one he doesn't necessarily recommend for major sporting events. "Would you do it again?" Kimes asked, to which Diplo laughed and said, "Maybe for a less intense game, like a friendly match."

The story gained even more traction when Alex Morgan caught wind of it. Morgan, a two-time World Cup champion and one of the most recognizable faces in women's soccer, has always been known for her poise on the pitch and her advocacy off it. She's spoken out on issues like equal pay and gender equality in sports, while also embracing her role as a mother and entrepreneur. When Diplo's confession surfaced, Morgan took to social media with a lighthearted response that perfectly captured her witty personality. "Glad you enjoyed the show, Diplo! Next time, maybe stick to coffee," she posted on Instagram, accompanied by a laughing emoji and a photo from the final. Her comment quickly amassed likes and shares, with fans praising her for handling the odd revelation with grace and humor.

This isn't the first time Diplo has shared glimpses into his unconventional life. The 45-year-old artist has a history of eclectic experiences, from producing music in war-torn regions to collaborating on soundtracks for major films. His love for soccer runs deep; he's a vocal supporter of teams like Arsenal and has even invested in soccer-related ventures. In fact, Diplo has attended numerous high-profile matches, including Champions League games and international tournaments. But the 2019 World Cup story stands out for its sheer audacity. It also underscores a broader trend in celebrity culture, where stars increasingly share personal anecdotes that blur the lines between public personas and private indulgences. In an era of social media oversharing, Diplo's honesty about his LSD experience adds a layer of authenticity, even if it's polarizing.

Mina Kimes' podcast provided the perfect platform for this tale. Kimes, who started her career as a business journalist before transitioning to sports, has a knack for drawing out compelling narratives. Her show often features guests from diverse backgrounds, mixing sports analysis with cultural commentary. In Diplo's episode, the conversation veered from his soccer fandom to broader topics like the globalization of sports and the role of music in athletic motivation. Diplo discussed how he creates playlists for workouts and events, even sharing that he's curated soundtracks for soccer teams. Kimes, an avid fan herself, bonded with him over their shared passion for the game, making the LSD story feel like a quirky footnote rather than the main event.

Reactions to Diplo's confession have been mixed, as one might expect. Some fans applaud his candor, seeing it as a refreshing break from the polished image many celebrities maintain. Others, particularly in the sports community, raise eyebrows at the idea of attending such a significant event under the influence, questioning whether it diminishes the achievement of the athletes. Alex Morgan's response, however, seems to diffuse any potential controversy, framing it as harmless fun. It's worth noting that the 2019 World Cup was a landmark moment for women's sports, drawing record viewership and sparking conversations about equality. Having a celebrity like Diplo there – even in an altered state – arguably added to the event's cultural cachet, bringing attention from non-traditional audiences.

Delving deeper into the context, the 2019 tournament was more than just a series of matches; it was a cultural phenomenon. The U.S. team's run included memorable moments like Rapinoe's iconic celebrations and Morgan's tea-sipping gesture after scoring against England. Off the field, the players fought for equal pay, eventually leading to a landmark settlement with U.S. Soccer. Diplo's presence, high or not, reflects how the event transcended sports, attracting figures from music, film, and beyond. He even mentioned in the podcast that he met other celebrities in the VIP sections, turning the final into a star-studded affair.

For Diplo, this story is just one chapter in a life full of adventures. He's spoken in the past about using psychedelics for creative inspiration, aligning with a growing movement in entertainment where substances like LSD are discussed openly for their mind-expanding potential. Artists like The Beatles and modern figures like Elon Musk have shared similar experiences, normalizing what was once taboo. In sports, too, there's a history of athletes and fans experimenting, though it's rarely admitted so publicly.

Mina Kimes wrapped up the interview by reflecting on how stories like Diplo's humanize celebrities and make sports more relatable. "It's wild to think about what people are going through in those stands," she said. "While the players are out there making history, everyone's got their own narrative." Alex Morgan, in a follow-up comment, echoed this sentiment, saying she's flattered that her team's victory left such a lasting impression – psychedelic or otherwise.

In the end, Diplo's LSD-fueled World Cup adventure serves as a reminder of the unpredictable ways in which sports and culture collide. It highlights the joy of fandom, the thrill of live events, and the occasional absurdity that comes with it. Whether you're a die-hard soccer fan, a music lover, or just someone who appreciates a good story, this tale from Lyon is one for the books. As women's soccer continues to grow, with stars like Morgan leading the charge, anecdotes like this only add to the vibrant tapestry of the sport's legacy. Who knows what other secrets lurk in the stands of future finals? For now, Diplo's confession stands as a trippy testament to the magic of the beautiful game. (Word count: 1,248)

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